Washington was fatally shot in a dispute in Greensboro, North Carolina. And although emergency crews did their best to save the young man’s life, he was pronounced dead at Moses Cone Hospital.

Official police reports say David Lee White Jr., 21, of Greensboro, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. He is being held in the Guilford County Jail without bond.

Barrino, who is open about her Christian faith and is known to offer salvation to her concert attendees, made a heartfelt promise to her nephew.

“I will make sure to not get so caught up in my work,” she said, and vowed to “be there for your brothers and sisters.”

Though Washington is now gone, the impact he had on the lives of those who knew and loved him will go on forever. Even beyond the grave, through the misfortune that befell him, he inspiring others to turn to Christ before it is too late.